Hey Leaders!
Every April, when the Month of the Military Child rolls around, I can’t help but get a little reflective.
I was an Air Force brat. Moving every two years, switching schools, saying goodbye to friends before I could really settle in, that was my normal. At the time, I didn’t think twice about it. But now? I see how much of that experience is baked into who I am as a leader today.
Resilience? Check.
Adaptability? Double check.
But here’s the thing most people don’t talk about. We’re all leading through the lens of our upbringing, whether we realize it or not.
Maybe you grew up in a house where structure and discipline ruled the day. Or maybe you were the one holding things together in chaos. Either way, those early experiences? They’re still driving how you lead, how you make decisions, how you handle conflict, and how you show up when the pressure is on.
Here’s the uncomfortable truth: Not all the lessons we carry serve us as leaders. Some of them are outdated. Some limit us. Some were survival tactics that don’t translate to the C-suite.
And if you’re aiming to get there, you need to know what you’re carrying. So, here’s my challenge to you this week:
Get Honest About Your Leadership DNA.
Every leader has a leadership DNA, a unique blueprint shaped by life experiences, upbringing, and defining moments. But most leaders never stop to ask why they lead the way they do. So ask yourself:
What leadership behaviors do I default to under pressure?
Am I naturally collaborative or more directive?
Do I lean into tough conversations or sidestep them?
Spot the Cracks.
Self-awareness is the superpower that separates good leaders from great ones. And part of that is having the courage to call yourself out. So ask yourself:
Where do I hesitate when I should move fast?
Am I avoiding decisions because I’m worried about being wrong?
Do I shy away from conflict, or dive in too aggressively?
Start the Upgrade.
Once you’ve identified your leadership DNA and spotted the cracks, it’s time to refine. Top-tier leaders aren’t chained to old patterns. They evolve. They ask, “What’s the next-level version of me in this role?” and “What behaviors no longer serve where I’m heading?”
Remember, leadership isn’t static. It’s a living, breathing skill set that demands constant tweaking.
Here’s the reality. What got you here won’t get you there. So if you’re gunning for that next role, the C-suite, that bigger paycheck, it starts with understanding yourself better than anyone else in the room.
Best,
Stephanie
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